November 2017 - The Business of Fitness Issue

STARTING

FROM THE GROUND

UP Naomi Seifter of Picnik and seven other Austin companies are enhancing the way we eat, exercise, and connect through unbridled innovation.

PAGE 34

NOVEMBER 2017

PLUS How the mayor is incentivizing your workplace to be healthier GIFT GUIDE Give the gift of fun and fitness this holiday season RECIPE Swap your Thanksgiving dessert for pumpkin pie chia pudding

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THE GOOD STUFF

THE BUSINESS OF FITNESS PAGE 34

2017 Holiday Gift Guide PAGE 50

How to Stay Fit at Your Office Job PAGE 70

Kevin Brodwick, Thinksport

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cover & contents photos by Brian Fitzsimmons

LOEWY LAW FIRM

NOV 2017 Editor’s Letter 10 Contributors 11 #KeepAustinFit 14 Exposure 16

Nutrition

Recipe: Pumpkin Pie Chia Pudding 20

Ask Sam Now 18 Events 78 Rides + Races 80 Discover! 82

Style

Style At Service 58

The Keto Diaries 22

Gear That Gets You Motivated 62

5 Healthy Kitchen Hacks 24

Wellness

Culture

Should I Stay or Should I Go? 26 Bearing My Cross— Cyclocross, That Is 30

HIGHLIGHTS

Medical FAQ: Gout 64

30

The Importance of Probiotics: Part II 66

Fitness

Curvy Yoga 72

FML Workout: TRX Duo Trainer 74

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EDITOR’S LETTER

A few of my favorite memories with the magazine:

Flying through the air with the greatest of ease at Trapeze Texas

When I reflect on my time at Austin Fit Magazine, I realize how lucky I have been to contribute to this publication’s production. I can’t tell you how many people say to me, “You look like you have so much fun at your job!” And although they are likely gaining these insights from Instagram or Facebook (otherwise known as the highlight reel of my life), I promise that what you see on social media isn’t too far off from my reality. Admittedly, the role of editor is challenging, and working in a small team means we have to work tirelessly—often outside the scope of our job description—but it’s totally worthwhile just to bring diverse and interesting content to you every month.

That being said, this will be my last issue as editor of Austin Fit Magazine. It’s a bittersweet decision to end my tenure here, but I have accepted an opportunity that will ultimately catapult my career growth and provide a supportive platform to try something new. The end of this chapter is actually an experience that has come full circle.

When I was brought on as an intern in 2014, I approached the editor and proposed AFM publish a piece about butter coffee, interviewing Picnik food trailer owner (and our cover star this month) Naomi Seifter on what the health benefits were. Since then, the Picnik brand has grown tremendously, with an expansion into a brick-and-mortar restaurant, a second food trailer, and a line of bottled butter coffee that’s carried in Whole Foods Markets across the country. Aside from proving to be a brilliant businesswoman, Naomi will also be my new boss when I join the Picnik corporate team to do marketing and strategic partnerships for the company.

I often worried about what life after Austin Fit Magazine looked like, but I’m in complete alignment with Picnik’s mission to help heal people through real, delicious food—so I anticipate a smooth transition.

I’m also thrilled to introduce my incoming replacement, Liz Harroun. She’s been a good friend of mine for a while and someone I just knew would be a perfect fit for the editor role. Liz has freelanced for us in the past, writing in-depth and wellrounded articles about everything from entomophagy to Austin’s rock climbing scene to staying fit at your office job (on page 70 in this issue). She’s personable and always smiling; Liz will undoubtedly be refreshing for AFM.

Wakesurfing under the instruction of the wonderful Kathleen Parker

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Keep Austin Fit,

Learning how to scale an eightfoot wall at Mylo Obstacle Fitness

Being one of the first groups to experience NLand Surf Park Experiencing first-hand what it’s like to be a MotoGP racer

Acro yoga fun at one of our Whole Lotta Yoga events

Gretchen Goswitz, Editor

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editor’s photo by Brian Fitzsimmons

CONTRIBUTORS

PUBLISHER/CEO Louis M. Earle COO/ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Alex Earle

Thank you to AFM’s contributors who make this magazine a worthy source of health and fitness information in Austin.

EDITOR Gretchen Goswitz ASSISTANT EDITOR Chelsea Bucklew CREATIVE DIRECTOR Weston Carls ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Karen Dauskurdas, Betty Davis, Arielle Olfers WRITERS Haley Baros, Carrie Barrett, Liz Harroun, Lauryn Lax, Kelly Nardo, Felicia Romero PROOFREADER Justine Harrington PHOTOGRAPHER Brian Fitzsimmons

GENERAL INQUIRIES info@austinfitmagazine.com ADVERTISING INQUIRIES ads@austinfitmagazine.com 512.407.8383 EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS gretchen@austinfitmagazine.com fitfocus@austinfitmagazine.com EVENT LISTINGS austinfitmagazine.com/events SUBSCRIPTIONS austinfitmagazine.com/subscribe 2499 S Capital of Texas HWY., B200 Austin, TX 78746 p 512.407.8383

Austin Fit Magazine assumes no responsibility for the content of articles or advertisements, in that the views expressed therein may not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or any magazine employee or contributor.

This publication and all of its contents are copyrighted.

Austin Fit Magazine is the assumed name of its publisher, Louis M. Earle, who has no interest in the business of Denis Calabrese who operates an exercise program under the assumed name of Austin Fit, which trains individuals to improve their jogging or running skills to participate in marathons. The views, opinions and other representations published in Austin Fit Magazine are not those of Austin Fit or any of its directors, officers, employees or agents.

Felicia Romero

Kelly Nardo

Sommer Brugal

Laci Mosier

Felicia Romero

After graduating from Arizona State University with a B.A in Poly Science and a master’s degree in exercise and wellness, Felicia began to pursue a career as a fitness competitor. She went on to compete nationally and internationally at the professional level for 8 years before retiring.

As a result of her success, Felicia later launched her own competitive fitness show, The Felicia Romero Classic, which is an NPC national qualifier that takes place every November. Felicia is an esteemed health and wellness advocate and entrepreneur, gym owner, and runs an online nutrition and fitness training business, FeliciaRomero.com.

Kelly Nardo

Kelly Nardo is a food and fitness fanatic. She lives in Austin, Texas where she runs a healthy meal delivery service and coaches CrossFit classes. She is the creative mind behind the blog, “Eat the Gains” in which she documents healthy recipes she creates and fun (but brutal!) workouts she endures. Kelly loves connecting with people that have shared passions—eating lots of delicious food and working out to stay healthy and fit.

Sommer Brugal

A Dominican Republic native, Sommer moved to Austin in search of great food, live music, and an adventure. Even though she’s been in town for just a few months, she already considers south Austin home. With a background in Journalism, she has a passion for storytelling, and strives to embody the spirit of her subjects in every piece she writes. She is an advocate for the Oxford comma and will happily challenge anyone who thinks otherwise. On any given day, you can find her writing at one of Austin’s local coffee shops. She drinks her coffee black, and thinks a cup of joe is the perfect backdrop for any and all conversations. She’s an active member of Project Austin, enjoys exploring the Greenbelt’s many trails, and is on a mission to try every taco truck in town.

Laci Mosier

Laci Mosier is a Texas native, UT alumna and senior copywriter for a local Austin advertising agency. She is a regular contributor to a number of life and wellness publications. Her writing is inspired by her love of yoga, running, meditation, good books and great jams. She lives in a tiny downtown apartment filled with books, art, succulents, and her one-eyed Golden Retriever, Tess.

PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE

N OV E M B E R 2 0 1 7 / AU S T I N F I T M AG A Z I N E

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Bonus Gift Ideas

AFM + FITRANKINGS

Can you compete with us? Create your account on FitRankings, sync your wearable device or activity app, and then join the Austin Fit Magazine group! The more the merrier—let’s get as many people from the fitness community in on the fun!

Head to austinfitmagazine.com to check the leaderboard.

In this issue, we list off a plethora of shoes, trackers, in-home products, and experiences that would make great gifts for the upcoming holiday season.

The AFM staff has curated a list of a few of our favorite things—outside of the aforementioned categories—that will be topping your wish lists this year. Check out our website for the online exclusive roundup.

ASK SAM NOW

We’ve added a new monthly column to AFM. Ask Sam Now is your go-to source for open and frank advice on matters ranging from practical to taboo.

Topics of discussion include health, fitness, wellness, nutrition, supplements, and sex.

Got a question? E-mail asksam@austinfitmagazine.com!

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EXPOSURE

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ASK SAM NOW

Welcome to Sam’s hot sauna! Home of straight talk without the B.S. Open and frank advice on matters ranging from practical to taboo. Topics of discussion include health, fitness, wellness, nutrition, supplements, and sex—so ask Sam now!

Sam, Every now and then, we do partner exercises in my fitness class, but I like doing my own thing! I have a hard time partnering up with someone who isn’t on my same fitness level. How can I have a better attitude toward partner workouts?

Dear Solo Sweater, There’s something to learn from everyone in every situation. Sometimes the level of physical intensity isn’t the main goal.

Group training partner drills should increase motivation, camaraderie, and challenges. If it’s consistently hindering your progress, talk to your trainer privately after class and ask for variations of the exercise to suit your level. If partner drills are once in a blue moon, change your workout approach and focus. Be in it to make a friend, inspire, encourage—put intensity aside. Make some goodness happen for the other person. Your kind efforts could change your partner’s outlook on the day. You could turn this into one of the most rewarding workouts from an entirely new perspective! Spread the love!

Sam, I hate the way my thighs build muscle so quickly. I’m a woman and I just want to have leaner, sexy legs.

Sam, There is so much supplement hype. If I’m eating clean, do I really need supplements?

Dear Big American Thighs, Some girls wish they could have strong legs.

Although your legs frustrate you, I guarantee they are the envy of others!

Genetics is a huge factor in how your muscles respond to exercise. Generally, we build muscle with heavy weights, fewer lifts, and power moves.

If muscle size is your concern, change focus. Train more core and upper bod; you’ll naturally lose some strength and size as thigh muscles atrophy. If nothing seems to work, find a personal trainer to take the guesswork and stress out and design a motivating program for lean, sexy legs.

Thighs aside, don’t forget to celebrate how wonderful you are and keep living with an attitude of gratitude.

Dear Not-a-Believer, No, you might not need supplements.

How are you feeling? Are you full of energy, not stressed, sleeping well, with no aches or pains? Packing on the muscle? Sex drive strong? Going to the bathroom regularly?

Lots of supplements are trending, but it doesn’t mean your body needs it.

If you do decide to make the move, seek professional advice first. Some brands are better than others. And some can be a dangerous mix with medications.

You are on the right track with clean eating. Keep going strong!

HAVE A QUESTION FOR SAM?

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~ P R E S E N T S ~

In the spirit of Boneshaker Project’s mission to get kids moving and active, this unique food and beverage tasting fundraiser for adults incorporates a twist to inspire guests to ‘shake their bones.’

Thursday, November 2

7:00pm – 9:30pm 800 Congress

PARTICIPATING BITES + SIPS :

AKA Mixology, The Austin Winery, Thirsty Planet, Whisler’s, SWAY Water, Sueno de Atzo Tequila, LIVE Soda, Grimpeur Bros Coffee SPECIAL THANKS TO: Austin Fit Magazine, City Surf, NLand Surf Park, Latinworks, Do512, KIND Bars, Dominion Golf Group, Tamisin Surf Boards, Wanderlust Yoga

NUTRITION

Pumpkin Pie Chia Pudding This Pumpkin Pie Chia Pudding takes the flavors of your favorite holiday dessert and turns it into a gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and Whole30-approved healthy snack!

by KELLY NARDO

SERVES 2-3

Ingredients ½ cup raw pecans 1½ cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh) 1½ cup unsweetened almond milk 1 teaspoon cinnamon ½ teaspoon ground ginger ½ teaspoon nutmeg pinch of sea salt ¼ cup chia seeds optional toppings: fresh fruit, nut butter, whipped cream, cinnamon

Instructions 1. Heat a small skillet over medium-low heat and let it get hot, about 30 seconds. Add pecans and toast for 4–5 minutes, stirring constantly, until golden brown.

2. Add pecans, pumpkin, almond milk, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt to a high powered blender or food processor. Process until smooth and all ingredients are combined, about 1–2 minutes.

3. Transfer to a medium sized resealable bowl. Stir in chia seeds until combined. Cover and refrigerate for 3 hours or overnight.

4. Eat as is or top with desired toppings. Enjoy!

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photo by Weston Carls

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NUTRITION

The Keto Diaries High fat, low carb. Three people dish on their experience with the ketogenic diet.

Gretchen Goswitz

Editor of Austin Fit Magazine The why As a fitness editor, I love to gain first-hand experience. I’ve been a raw vegan, vegetarian, and pescatarian. I’ve done the paleo diet as well as the Whole30.

When I attended Paleo f(x) earlier this year, I noticed the ketogenic diet was becoming increasingly popular, so it was only a matter of time before I tried it.

Length of time on the ketogenic diet It took my body four days to get into ketosis and I lasted two weeks total on the diet.

The journey I struggled with this one. For the past few years, I’ve kept my dairy intake to a minimum. One of my concerns was that I would feel heavy from consuming more dairy and fat products (even healthy fats) than what I’m used to. During the entire first week, I actually felt like everything was digesting very slowly. And although

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my physical appearance was changing and I was leaning out, I still didn’t feel great. After my body got adjusted though, my energy levels improved and kept me completely fueled during my workouts. When I quit adhering to the diet, I had to deal with the aftermath: my crazy, out of whack hormones.

Biggest challenge Introducing foods into my diet that I wasn’t used to eating on a regular basis. I consumed quite a bit of cheese, cream cheese, and most of all, butter—just to be able to hit those fat macros. It will be a long while before I drink another butter coffee. A friend of mine (and fellow Austin editor) made a good point about diets: when you do them, food becomes your life.

It’s all you think about and all you talk about.

Staples Butter coffee, bacon, eggs, strawberry cheesecake fat bombs (a frozen treat made of cream cheese, butter, and strawberries), poke bowls with extra avocado

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Mallory Brooks

Ultrarunner, Spectrum Trail Racing founder/ director, Pure Austin and Rogue Running coach The why In the ultrarunning world, there has always been a big focus on fuel, both before and during a race.

Carbo-loading pasta dinners used to be a staple to a pre-race routine. Some runners are known for eating entire pizzas during a 50+ mile race. For so long, endurance athletes trusted that they should be consuming massive amounts of carbohydrates.

I jumped on board with that thinking, having no real scientific reason for doing so. What followed was a string of races where my stomach hurt, I felt sluggish, and my recovery was prolonged. When I read up on the benefits of being in a state of ketosis and the application it had on endurance performance, I wanted to give it a shot and see if I could cure all of the aforementioned ailments.

Length of time on the ketogenic diet Two months.

The journey I noticed an immediate difference in my energy levels first thing in the morning. I was able to consume zero calories before and during a 10-mile

Mark Garza

Executive director at Flatwater Foundation The why It was in the face of a 137 mile paddleboard challenge for the SUP 11 cities tour in Holland. On and off I had changed my food and diet in a similar manner and saw good results. My sister—a doctor who is an advocate for the ketogenic diet—explained to me how the diet works and what the methodology is to get me back down to a leaner more efficient weight. Going into it, I felt like I had 15 pounds of body fat to lose in not a lot of time. My motivation was to be lighter on the water and be a little bit more nimble so I wasn’t doing as much work to move myself along.

training run. My body was no longer relying on the carbo-loading and was instead using my built in fat fuel. My mood felt more balanced and I slept more soundly than I ever had before.

Biggest challenge A double marathon that I attempted just a few weeks into it. I wasn’t sure how to fuel before and during a race, so I DNFed that race which is uncommon for me.

I reached out to an incredibly knowledgeable and experienced trail runner, Zach Bitter, who solved a few of my burning questions.

Knowing what I know now, I don’t think I would hit that same wall that I experienced in the double marathon.

Staples Eggs, butter coffee, salmon jerky, macadamia nuts, cottage cheese, coconut flakes.

www.alignaustin.com @alignaustin

Length of time on the ketogenic diet It was essentially the four months leading up to the tour. I gave myself time to change my diet, track, and lose the weight.

The journey I ended up dropping about 20 pounds, with the majority of it happening in the first two or three weeks. My body kind of went into shock and cut the weight, and after that it was about maintaining it. For me, peeing on the stick is what kept me able to do it—it became a game. It was also good for me to see what worked for my body. I was at the point where I was able to identify what foods would knock me out of ketosis. I combined it with OrangeTheory and the combination of the two just ripped through fat.

The most interesting thing was after I got lean, I felt like I was in the best shape of my life. I had so much energy. With less effort, I stayed very lean for about eight to ten months.

Biggest challenge I spend a lot of time traveling and quickly learned that being keto on the road was hard. I was also super addicted to sugar. Working with people who fight cancer and losing my father to cancer, this was something I wanted to take on. Sugar feeds cancer, so the biggest challenge for me was kicking those cravings. But after the first month, they were gone; it was the first time in 20 years I didn’t feel addicted .

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NUTRITION

5 Healthy Kitchen Hacks Small changes can make a major difference in your diet. by FELICIA ROMERO

1 Get Organized

We all have that one (or maybe more) drawer with all the random Tupperware lids, or mismatched plates and utensils. Not being able to find or easily access things when you need them often causes stress, which in turn can result in overeating.

So, if chaotic describes your kitchen, it is time to break out the cleaning glove and trash bin.

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2 Size Matters

When getting organized, it's important to think about what you're getting rid of and what you're keeping.

Research shows that smaller dishware can help decrease overeating, when accompanied with knowing the right portion sizes of your meals. As you're cleaning, consider getting rid of or storing those family-sized plates and bowls.

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3 Be Accountable

Making healthy choices starts with what you buy when you're at the grocery store. If you're just kicking off your wellness journey and need some help identifying better-foryou options when shopping, bring a friend to help keep you on track. You can even keep a shopping journal with nutrition facts and ingredients to keep you accountable.

4 Out of Sight, Out of Mind

Over-indulging in snackable foods is one of the easiest ways to accidentally sideline your health and wellness journey. Toss or keep any unhealthy snacks out of sight, and instead place healthy foods front and center, making them convenient to grab.

Also, eliminate binges by packing individual portions as soon as you bring those favorite snack foods home from the grocery store.

5 Get on a Routine

Hectic days can make it difficult to prioritize a healthy meal. But if you have an extra 30 minutes on your day off or are free on the weekends, it’s possible to grocery shop and prep a week’s worth of healthy meals (and save yourself from stressful evenings later).

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CULTURE

Should I Stay or Should I Go?

The pros and cons of setting up in a coworking space. by HALEY BAROS Working from home is everyone’s dream, right? Think about it— you’ve got no commute; you have the luxury of your own couch, refrigerator, and background noise; and, you have the option to spend the entire work day in your pajamas. This is all good and fun for a few weeks, but after some time, you may realize your work ethic starts to dwindle and you wonder if maybe freelancing from home isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Enter: coworking spaces, a concept wherein you are able to rent a workspace for a period of time, surrounded by many others, each working on your own individual projects. While those inhabiting the coworking space are probably

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not employed by the same company, you’re able to work alongside one another to create an ideal work environment.

Austin has caught on to this up and coming trend, providing coworking spaces like WeWork, atx Factory, Vuka, and The Refinery (opening this coming fall). If you’re just getting started with freelancing, and you’re unsure of the best place to get your work done, perhaps one of these coworking spaces is right for you!

Before you start testing stand-up desks and nap pods, let’s take a look at some of the pros and cons of working from home versus working in a coworking space.

Working in a Coworking Space

Working From Home PROS: Save money Working from home allows you to cut down on costs in more ways than one. There are no travel expenses, no uniform or work clothes to purchase, you can eat lunch out of your own fridge, and there’s no temptation to stop for a $4 coffee en route to the office. Plus, you may be eligible for a home office deduction when doing your taxes.

Create a work environment tailored to you Freelancing from home gives you a whole lot of freedom. You’re in charge of when you clock in, when you clock out, and where you choose to work—be it in your home office, at the dining room table, or on the sofa. If you need to cut work to pick up your child from school, go to the dentist, or maybe just need a mental health day, you can do so without having to request any time off.

CONS: Difficult to separate work life from home life With your home office right across the hall from your bedroom, it’s no surprise that separating work and home duties could potentially become problematic.

Say you work from home, but you’ve also got a twoyear-old and a nanny hanging out in the living room. It may become difficult to focus on the tasks at hand and set boundaries for your work time. On the flip side, it can even be tempting to spend all night in the office, rather than taking time to relax and unwind at the end of the day.

Coworking is reported to improve productivity, with 71 percent of workers saying they feel more creative in a coworking space and 68 percent saying they are able to focus more.

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Difficult to get motivated When you work from home, you’re the boss.

This means you’ve got no boss or manager holding you accountable in person, making sure you arrive on time, or checking in on the status of your productivity. At home, you may face more distractions (ahem, Netflix) than in an office setting, meaning you’ve got to have that much more self-discipline.

PROS: Networking and human interaction Working from home can often become isolating and downright lonely. In a coworking space, you’re surrounded by others that are just like you, cultivating a sense of community. There are others to talk to, eat lunch with, and collaborate with. You’re able to make connections with like-minded individuals who can open up doors to new business and social opportunities.

Create a routine As mentioned above, freelancing from home may pose problems if you’re feeling unmotivated. However, if you choose a coworking space, you’re forced to wake up, take a shower, brush your teeth, get dressed, and come to the office, creating a set routine to propel you toward a productive work day. Plus, most of these coworking spaces are very appealing to the eye, and may even have some free amenities available.

CONS: It could get costly to rent a space The price of renting a space varies depending on the style and location. You may be paying on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis in order to use the provided desk, amenities, and technology. If you’re a new freelancer working with a tight budget, this could end up being an added stressor.

Distractions Just as there are distractions at home, there are certainly distractions that come along with working around countless individuals. A chatty neighbor, business meetings happening in a common space, or even an attractive person giving you a look from across the way—distractions are all around in a busy workplace.

As a freelancer, you have the luxury of freedom! If you’re trying to figure out the best work environment for you, take some time to consider the advantages and downsides of both working from home and a coworking space.

N OV E M B E R 2 0 1 7 / AU S T I N F I T M AG A Z I N E

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Sentrel

8127 Mesa Dr. Suite B203 Austin, TX 78759

A new organic beauty store has come to Austin, ready to provide cleaner beauty products to the whole family. Coined as the one-stop-shop for all your family’s product needs, the store aims to be the beauty spot that we all trust. Its products are all-natural or organic, environmentally sustainable, and sulfate, paraben, and cruelty-free. Sentrel also has a community space in-house to educate customers on the benefits of using safer products and why we should incorporate them into our everyday routine. Founded by salon veterans James Bryant and Sarah Bensley, Sentrel is named after the phonetic spelling of the word “central,” meaning ‘of the greatest importance; principal or essential.’

Urban Axes

812 Airport Blvd., Austin, TX 78704 When the bar scene bores you, where do you go? Take your standard of fun to the next level at Urban Axes, Austin’s first indoor social axe-throwing experience.

Although they don’t serve alcohol on-site, the facility is BYOB, so guests are more than welcome (and encouraged!) to bring alcohol and/or food with them to accompany the axe throwing. Urban Axes can host large groups of up to 24 people, making it a hassle-free spot for bachelor/bachelorette parties and adult birthdays for ages 21 and up. Individuals and smaller groups are also welcome to join in on the fun during walk-in hours. All participants receive safety instructions and one-on-one throwing practice led by fully trained coaches.

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TO AUSTIN

Studios and stores for fitness-minded folks

RōW YOUR WAY TO RESULTS

SPiN Ping Pong Bar

213 West 5th Street, Austin, TX 78701 Did someone say dinner and ping pong? On the map as of this fall, the ping pong bar and restaurant, SPiN, opened its doors in Austin. Housed in the old Antone’s location off fifth street, Susan Sarandon has created a unique space for the people of Austin to play a few rounds of ping pong and hang out. With enough space for up to 500 guests, SPiN includes private rooms and 14 Olympic-style ping pong tables—food and a full-service bar will also be a part of the mix.

GYMGUYZ mobile

Headquartered in New York, GYMGUYZ has made its way to Austin to bring personal training straight to you. Focused on individualized one-on-one sessions, group, and corporate fitness, GYMGUYZ has a team of certified coaches aiming to target all aspects of health and fitness. The convenience of their door-to-door service is great for those who don’t have the time to head to the gym or have other obligations at work or home. Each van comes fully stocked with gym equipment and supplies the tools and techniques to get clients in shape.

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FITNESS

EXCLUSIVE DEALS @ ROFITNESS.COM/AFM

CULTURE

Bearing My Cross— Cyclocross, That Is.

by CARRIE BARRETT

Excuses, Excuses

I don’t have the right bike.

I don’t need another bike.

I don’t want to get injured.

I’m a triathlete so I’m terrible at bike handling skills.

I’m too old for this sh*t!

Oh, I had all the excuses for why I shouldn’t try the sport of cyclocross, a form of bike racing in parks and on grass that is an incestual blend of steeplechase, NASCAR, parkour, cross-country running, mountain biking, and a frat party.

Still, though, the pull of this insanity was undeniable to this middle-aged tomboy.

I’d been lurking online and at clinics for about two years, expressing interest to whoever would listen that I really wanted to try this sport. I love dirt and I love riding my bike. After 15 years as a road triathlete, I was ready to try something new. But, was I ready to fail at something new?

Ugh, failure. The perennial showstopper of fun.

Well, this was my time to quit making excuses and dip my toe into the cyclocross mud. I promised Austin Fit Magazine an article about it, after all!

Stop Lurking and Start Working

It started with an innocent and half-hearted post on a local cycling club Facebook page. “Anyone selling a 49cm CX bike?” (CX is short for cyclocross.) I’m sure I even layered it with a winking emoji knowing that finding a used 49cm CX bike for sale may be as rare as a unicorn sighting. That size is reserved for shorties like me who don’t extend much beyond five feet tall. My hopes were about as high as my vertical jump.

In a matter of minutes, my Facebook Messenger notified me of the unthinkable.

“I have a bike for you, Carrie. My wife is selling her 49cm Specialized Crux and it may be perfect.”

Within one week, I had a new/used cyclocross bike courtesy of Dan and Dani Pedroza, two of Austin’s finest cycling enthusiasts. Excuse No. 1 was out of the way. Let me state for the record that a special cyclocross bike is not necessary to compete, although it is preferred. Cross bikes look like road bikes, but with slightly different geometry and beefier wheels. Many athletes race on mountain bikes and even single speeds. Bottom line: If you’ve got a bike, you can do a CX race.

Well, wouldn’t you know, the acquisition of this bike coincided with a very special women’s only cyclocross clinic where volunteers (including the Pedrozas) would teach newbies like me to properly dismount and remount their bikes, jump

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barriers, and run through sand pits all while carrying the dang bike on your shoulder. It was a cycling boot-camp, physically and mentally daunting, but because there were donuts and beer at the end, it was totally worth it.

It was also a relief to be around so many other cross-curious ladies (that’s a thing) who felt exactly the same way I did: so excited to try something new, but scared to death of falling, looking stupid, making rookie errors. You know, all the usual stuff that takes you right back to middle school panic attacks.

The cool part? We did fall and make errors because everyone falls in cyclocross. It’s part of the gig.

Excuses be damned—they were falling like flies. I had the bike and I was learning the skills. I thought I was too old until I met some local athletes who make the age excuse obsolete.

Not only was I fresh out of excuses, but I was also running out of time because the first in a long series of races was fast approaching. So, what’s a newbie to do? Contact the race director and pick his brain, of course!

The MasterMind

Brett Kinsey, owner and race director at Capital City Racing, was my wizard. A self-proclaimed “Cross Evangelist,” Kinsey not only walks the walk, but he talks the talk. He directs races and he wins them.

He’d talk me down from the cyclocross anxiety ledge and let me know that everything would be just fine.

Plus, it was his race, The Bicycle Sport Shop Six Shooter, that I was signed up for.

“Cyclocross is a big party in a field that just happens to have a bike race running through it,” he said, trying to ease my trepidations. “It’s going to be hard. There’s no getting around it. But, a new person can come out to my course and definitely have fun.”

OK. I’m in for the fun part. photo by Michael Johnson

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CULTURE

Kinsey designs courses in area parks that go to interesting places in the field, but come back to the beer garden and heckle zone over and over again. If there’s a sand pit to run through while shouldering your bike, even better.

You may get harassed a bit by some raucous spectators (who are also usually racing later), but you know what else comes with cyclocross racing? Beer handups! Forget about Gatorade and water. In cyclocross, if you can spare a second of time to let go of your handlebars, a solo cup of craft beer goodness awaits.

Kinsey prioritizes the “fun” aspect of his races. In a lot of sports, he notes, people do their race and then leave. “I want people to stay all day long. Cyclocross is as much about the spectators as much as it is about the race because they keep the party going.”

It’s Not Just For Dudes

One of the many awesome aspects of cyclocross is the accessibility of the sport for men, women, and children! Yes, children.

These kids rocked their own race (there’s something to be said for not being afraid of falling or failing) and, instead of beer handups, spectators offer juice boxes or even dollar bills to the youngsters as they roll by. That alone makes me wish I would’ve started racing as a junior!

Alas, I’m no longer a junior but a 40+ master and on Sept. 30, I lined up with a dozen other 40+ ladies, juniors 19 and under, and other women at the starting line of The Bicycle Sport Shop Six Shooter Cyclocross Race in east Austin.

Go Time

“It’s just 30 minutes, Barrett. You can do anything for 30 minutes.” Yes, in my internal pep talks, I refer to myself by my last name.

It sounds tougher that way).

The whistle blew and I pedaled down the field onto the 1.5 mile track of cycling chaos that included dips, twists, turns, a large sand pit and, thanks to the recent rains, several large mud pits that you muscled through with each lap—all while I was trying to race against other people. Passing people was the least of my concerns as I was too busy trying to figure out how to dismount my bike, jump (or step) over a barrier, and remount the bike without looking like a fool in the heckle zone.

I could hear cheers from friends in the crowd and the familiar BigMouth Announcing voices shouted words

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photography by Brian Fitzsimmons

“I’m still too old for this sh*t, but I can’t wait to do it again!” of encouragement (or light-hearted harassment) around the course. Thirty minutes doesn’t sound like a long time on paper, but when your heart is beating at approximately 10,000 beats per minute from adrenaline, it feels like an eternity.

When all was said and done and I crossed the finish line in the middle of the pack, I felt like a kid who had just ridden her first roller coaster: knuckles white from the death grip; heart rate racing like a newborn; head spinning from the excitement; voice and throat dry from the breathless work. My race kit and bike were filthy and caked in mud from the pits and my quads were still quivering from the effort.

Back at the team tent and beer garden, I high-fived my new friends and teammates who had been so welcoming and supportive from my first entry into this madness. It truly was their encouragement (read: prodding and heckling text messages) that got me to the start line of my first cyclocross race. Well, that, and this writing deadline.

My first words when I was finally able to talk and breathe again?

“I’m still too old for this sh*t, but I can’t wait to do it again!”

And, so I did...the very next day. afm

Never Needs Charging

Will Never Break

Cyclocross is Accessible to Everyone

• Low registration fees make it affordable for the entire family.

• Cross races range from 30-60 minutes, which is great for spectators and athletes.

• Most events are two days so you can race on one or both days.

• You don’t need hours upon hours of training time and it doesn’t take away from your social life. It adds to it!

• Most types of bikes will work for cyclocross.

• There are races for men, women, masters, children, and beginners.

• CrossFit just introduced cyclocross as part of their games this year and area races are attempting to tap into potential interest with new “no license” Dirty Double where you get to ride two laps in a safe and supportive atmosphere!

Won’t Burn Eyes

To learn about upcoming races, visit: Texas Bicycle Racing Association txbra.org

Recyclable

Capital City Racing Facebook Page facebook: Capital City Racing Texas

Upcoming Cyclocross Races in Austin: November 4–5 in Moya Park November 18–19 in Webberville

photography by Michael Johnson

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AUSTINFITMAGAZINE.COM @AustinFit • #KeepAustinFit

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Naomi Seifter

Picnik

BY GRETCHEN GOSWITZ

At the time of our interview, Naomi Seifter is eliminating all forms of avocado from her diet. She’s not trying to drop weight or fuel for an athletic event—she’s just trying to feel better. It’s seemingly odd, considering avocados are nutrientdense and generally contribute to good digestive health. That, and Seifter’s restaurant Picnik cooks most of its food with avocado oil. We’re dining in at Picnik’s brick-and-mortar restaurant, where she orders a simple lunch plate of salmon and collard greens cooked in coconut oil (the second most commonly used oil in their kitchen). The waitress doesn’t hesitate to make note of the modifications. It’s not because Seifter is the owner or held exclusive to special treatment. This is just the glory of Picnik’s culinary point of view—ready to cater to all requests sans judgment or inconvenience.

“I’ve been seeing a medical intuitive because no matter what I tried I was still having reactions to stuff. She does readings specifically related to health and healing,” says Seifter, who has fought a lifelong battle of varying food sensitivities and intolerances. Her nutritional psychic has been able to pinpoint the exact foods in her diet that she would benefit from eliminating. “It’s been an incredible journey. Anytime I deviate from the plan is when I have issues.”

At her next session, the medical intuitive will identify a new set of foods that Seifter should remove, as well as which ones can be reintroduced. Not only does she follow this protocol rooted in trust and flexibility for her personal health, but it’s close to the way she runs her business. And if you’ve ever dined at her restaurant, stopped by the food trailers, or drank her bottled butter coffee, you know that this method is really working for her.

Billionaire Mark Cuban once famously said, “'Follow your passion' is easily the worst advice you could ever give or get.” As far as business acumen goes, his word carries some weight. Seifter, however—and her rapidly growing empire— is proving to be the exception.

“My biggest passion is divine intervention, and listening to the way I’m being led. My journey with business doesn’t feel like my own—it feels like I’m being guided,” she says. Any sense of a control is an illusion. With outside circumstances working on a timing of their own, Seifter acknowledges the best defense is to surrender attachment and accept the cosmic sign to reconfigure. In part, this is how Picnik began.

Before Seifter opened the flagship food trailer, her professional resume was chock full of restaurant experience, dating back to when she started working in the industry at the age of 16. Despite her relevant capabilities, plus a college degree in musical theatre (a study that groomed her to be personable and well-spoken), Seifter struggled to get work. “Starbucks wouldn’t interview me to be a barista. Whole Foods wouldn’t hire me as a cashier. Why did it take so much to get people to believe in me?” Seifter recalls.

Down but not defeated, she refused to let the proverbial closed doors shut her out completely. Seifter spent her early twenties preparing to open her own operation, originally a juice and coffee concept called Pressed and Squeezed. Close friends gave her honest opinions, saying the name was too photography by Brian Fitzsimmons

complicated. Seifter also had difficulty dialing in on the branding, so she made the decision to change the plan. She had already locked into the location on 1700 S. Lamar Boulevard, and needed to act fast.

“I heard from multiple people that the space looked like a perfect place for a picnic,” she says. To skirt around trademark issues, she replaced the last ‘c’ with a ‘k’—and the Picnik food trailer was born.

In true start-up fashion, Seifter faced unfamiliar territory, but had the grit and hustle to make it work. “I really started to learn how to cook after I opened Picnik,” she admits. When she had to let go of Picnik’s two professional chefs due to financial constraints, she was left with no choice but to run the culinary side on her own. For eight months in 2014, Seifter changed the trailer’s food menu every day, openly accepting constructive criticism to hone in on what worked and what didn’t.

The vision constantly evolved in response to customer feedback. Picnik’s beginnings were more paleo food-focused with a stellar drink program—a menu unlike any other in town. As bone broth and butter coffee increased in popularity, Austin residents flocked to Picnik to get their daily cup with a dose of high quality fats. Because of this traction, Seifter repositioned the brand to be more like a healthy Starbucks.

Business was booming for Picnik, but Seifter still wasn’t satisfied. Most of the trailer’s food menu was grab-and-go from a refrigerator. “I became more disappointed in our inability to serve food I was really proud of. No matter how much you do, if you put it in a box and serve it cold, it’s only going to be so good,” Seifter says. The customer base Picnik had acquired was primarily comprised of people just like Seifter. They were on an elimination diet, looking to make modifications to meet different dietary needs; pre-packaged meals didn’t allow for flexibility. “The more I got into what the business was and what it stood for, I thought it was a missing component.”

Seifter’s mentor and Houston-based investor Cameron Smith urged her to make the move into the brick-and-mortar business. Knowing how displeased Seifter was with the food, Smith insisted that a restaurant under the Picnik name would add validity to the brand and establish Seifter as a trusted resource in the food space. Sure enough, when Picnik opened its doors on Burnet Road in Aug. 2016, Seifter and her team nailed the “real food, good vibes” philosophy it promised to deliver. Taking the guesswork out of safe, healthy, readilyaccessible food was enough of an angle to fill the restaurant with hungry patrons. But above all, Seifter proved that delicious and nutritious were not mutually exclusive traits on Picnik’s 100 percent gluten, corn, peanut, and soy-free menu.

Meanwhile, Seifter had another project in the works—one that she had been working on long before the brick-and-mortar opened. Like most coffee shops, Seifter’s trailer gained a group of regulars who loyally loved her special brews. “We’d see them all the time and they’d say something like, ‘Hey I’m going to Dallas next week. What do I do about my coffee?’ We didn’t want to give away recipes, but it’s also a pain to travel with cocoa, butter, MCT oil, and all these messy ingredients,” she explains. So, she N OV E M B E R 2 0 1 7 / AU S T I N F I T M AG A Z I N E

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(PICTURED) Vegan Queso: Cheeses cashew creme, rajas, Serrano, pico de gallo, with guac and almond flour chips Lamb Chops: Grass fed grass finished lamb chops, wilted chiffonade greens, root veggie mix, red wine demo glaze Pulled Duck Chile Relleno: Slow braised duck, butternut squash, currant, pecan, orange pomegranate chutney, cumin yogurt crema, cilantro lime riced vegetables.

Avocado Toast: Fermented sourdough, mashed avocado, hemp seeds, radish, Chile flakes, sprouts

began working on a travel-friendly “butter coffee bomb.”

Unfortunately, the early iterations were riddled with stability and fragility issues.

Seifter connected with a buyer at Whole Foods Market, who suggested she turn it into a bottled beverage, rather than a packaged coffee bomb like originally intended. It wasn’t as simple as using the classic recipes and bottling them up. To make a shelf-stable product, Seifter and her team were essen-

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tially tasked with the job of blending oil and water—or rather, coffee and butter.

After taking a cue from the universe’s intervention and making the product’s first notable pivot—changing the name from Blue Northern to Picnik—Seifter thought she was heading in a positive direction. But when the team attended Natural Products Expo West, among approximately 3,000 exhibitors and over 60,000 attendees, the bottled butter coffee didn’t hold up well. “The product was

frozen solid. I just didn’t want to compromise our mission by adding chemicals.” It was a similar experience when they were expected to deliver to Whole Foods Market stores.

Yet again, it arrived frozen and never saw a moment on the shelves. Seifter eventually increased the budget to invest in a top-notch food scientist. If this scientist were to be something of a fairy godmother, one might say Picnik’s bottled butter coffee played out like a true Cinderella story. Once they perfected the recipe, every regional buyer at Whole Foods Markets across the country picked it up for the stores—a rarity for new consumer packaged goods.

The Picnik brand encountered some typical trial-and-error moments since its creation in 2013, while Seifter dealt with unique growing pains of her own, especially being a young entrepreneur. “I started the company when I was 24. When I first started looking at investment opportunities, I felt like people didn’t take me seriously. A lot of people think only experience is the precursor to success,” Seifter says.

Her results soon became something that couldn’t be disputed.

Nowadays, Seifter notes that people are more surprised than doubtful. As a female restaurateur in a male-dominated industry, she hardly considers it an obstacle. Brought up by a mother who worked as a doctor, and learning from other women in early restaurant jobs, Seifter’s personal and professional life never felt limited by gender.

In Sept. 2017, Picnik opened a second food trailer in the St. Elmo District, anticipating the buzzing developments to come in the area. Growth won’t stop there, either. Downtown Denver will welcome the state’s first Picnik store in 2018. Additionally, a small coffee shop through the Friends of 365 Program at a 365 by Whole Foods store will open in southern California.

“I get so excited about the restaurant because I think there are other markets in this country that would be appreciative of a Picnik. We’d still be sourcing from local purveyors, leaning on the local community, integrating people from that area. Even if it has more of a national presence, we want it to feel unique to every community we’re in,” Seifter says.

Can Picnik continue to conquer this market? All (divine) signs point to yes.

Siete Family Foods

A NEW TAKE S ON TORTILLA

BY LACI MOSIER Veronica Garza and her brother Miguel, the founders of Siete Family Foods, never intended on starting a business. At 17 years old, Veronica was diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder that left her constantly tired and in pain. After years of struggling with symptoms, she learned that she also had a gluten allergy.

Her brother started doing some research to help. He learned that others in her situation had found success in adopting a grain-free diet. It was the hope she needed, but it also meant that much of the food Veronica and her family grew up loving for generations was now off limits. As a Mexican-American, homemade flour tortillas were a staple for her and her family. She says eliminating them from her diet felt like not just losing a favorite food, but losing a part of her culture.

So she set to work finding an alternative. Over the next few years, she tinkered and experimented endlessly until she landed on an almond flour-based tortilla that was good. Really good. Once she got approval from her grandmother that they were “the best tortillas she had ever tasted,” Veronica knew she had a product she could very well sell.

In just a few short years, Siete Family Foods, went from a brandless company with no logo and a zip-lock bag for packaging to becoming a popular foodie favorite. “When it comes to innovation we try not to focus on trends, but rather on solving problems,” says Veronica. Today, Siete has national distribution, a versatile and hugely successful product line, and continues to soar to the top of people’s shopping lists.

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The Business of Fitness

Nutrabolt

BY LACI MOSIER

THE EXPLOSIVE 4 IND C INNOVATION BEH

Shop the aisles or virtual shelves of any major retailer and you will almost certainly come across products from Nutrabolt—the sports nutrition category leader and creator of fitness fanatic-favorites C4 and XTEND. With a sleek campus spanning 36,000 square feet, plus an additional 20,000 square foot state-of-the-art gym for employees, it’s hard to believe this leviathan company started out in a cramped and crowded duplex. “One bedroom was an ‘accounting office,’ another served as an ‘inventory staging and packing room.’ The living room was the sales pit with a sales desk on each of the three walls,” recalls Nutrabolt CEO, Doss Cunningham.

The duplex may have been small, but the ambition pumping inside was anything but. Lean, but impassioned, the crew helped steward the once scrappy startup into the global powerhouse it is today.

Although the duplex days are a distant memory, the core mission driving the original team has remained—“to support the journey of self-improvement and personal evolution of customers through sports and active nutrition products.” Doss says the company continues to evolve to meet customer needs and wants, and above all is “dedicated to becoming the best sports nutrition brand in the world.”

And as far as having an office in Austin? Doss says, “From the distinctive set of talent that has grown and resides here to the fitness culture that flourishes within it, Austin provides so many unique opportunities for us.”

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Thinksport

BY SOMMER BRUGAL

photography by Brian Fitzsimmons

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The Business of Fitness

Since its founding in 2006, Thinksport has been recognized with many firsts: the first 100 percent BPA-free baby bottle, the first 100 percent BPA-free insulated sports bottle, and the first sunscreen to pass Whole Food Market’s premium care requirements.

Today, it continues to lead the alternative product industry with one of the largest assortments of safe products in the world, spanning from baby care to sporting goods to skin care.

Thinkbaby and Thinksport founder Kevin Brodwick originally became interested in alternative products while working with a biological testing lab focused on studying toxic chemicals in common consumer products.

“We saw that it didn’t matter where the product was made—they were all leaching harmful chemicals,” explained Brodwick. He says Thinkbaby and Thinksport were directly created to address that issue.

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According to Brodwick, there are about 5,000 chemicals that behave like BPA. So while a sports bottle might be BPA-free, the likelihood of it containing other harmful chemicals remains high.

To avoid additional chemicals, Brodwick and his team use the precautionary principle. They look for those bad actors when creating new products to ensure it’s free of all harmful substances. He says he doesn’t want to “land on the next ‘gotcha’ chemical.”

Thinksport’s continuous growth is a testament to the demand for safer products. And while there’s ample opportunity to expand within the main segments of body care, sun care, and hydration, Brodwick says he’s committed to remaining true to the brand’s mission in doing so.

He plans to produce sustainable, chemical-free products while maintaining a strong focus on social responsibility. photography by Brian Fitzsimmons

Bumble Bizz

HT G I R E SWIP R AN FO IEW V INTER

Whitney Wolfe Herd, CEO of Bumble

BY LACI MOSIER

Alex Williamson el-Effendi, Bumble’s Head of Brand

Alex’s photo by David Wells; Whitney’s photo by Kristen Kilpatrick

First came Bumble the dating app. Then came Bumble BFF, the friendship app. Next comes Bumble Bizz, the networking app.

The female-first networking approach is an extension of Bumble’s mission to empower women in myriad ways. The ever-evolving app continues to forge new territory, putting the balls (if you will), entirely in the lady’s court. The rules are simple—girl swipes right, guy swipes right, but only the girl can make the first move.

It’s a whole new era of “ladies first.”

Just as Bumble turned the dating app industry on its head, Bumble Bizz is doing the same for professional networking, giving women the control to make the first move.

“We believe Bizz will help clear up the gray areas in networking that often make women feel uncomfortable—for example, receiving an

unwanted message from a stranger on a professional platform,” says Bumble’s Head of Brand, Alex Williamson el-Effendi.

Similar to online dating, there is an imbalance in the gender dynamics of networking and Bizz is dedicated to changing that conversation.

Alex says the idea for Bizz came from listening to users. “We believe current ways of networking are antiquated. Our goal is to give you the power to change your professional life from the palm of your hand. Every swipe is an opportunity to expand your network and make empowered career moves.”

Bumble’s corporate team found a match in this city, leading them to root down and build headquarters here. “We love Austin! It evokes a feeling of fearlessness,” she says. It’s a vibe that truly mirrors Bumble and its team.

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The Business of Fitness

FringeSport

BY SOMMER BRUGAL

FringeSport is leading the garage gym revolution, designing and manufacturing equipment from barbells to barbell plates to kettlebells, and supplying gyms like CrossFit boxes, micro gyms, and home gyms. Although the e-commerce business’ range spans far beyond Austin, the brand got its start much closer to home.

Peter Keller, founder and CEO of FringeSport, launched his career in the industry after realizing he wanted to help people better their lives through fitness. An active member in the CrossFit community at the time, Keller realized an opportunity within the market to do so.

Staying true to his goal, Keller focuses mainly on supporting individuals as they transform their home garage gyms and helping micro gym owners build standout facilities for their clients.

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FringeSport aims to improve fitness gear and products on the market, but its strongest quality is the staff. Their dedication to the work they do, their passion for strength, and their willingness to support others reach their goals sets them apart in the industry.

“It’s not an official slogan, but it’s something [we] say a lot: We only sell what we lift on,” said Keller. He says FringeSport staff members only sell products they themselves would use during their personal fitness training routines.

When asked how FringeSport will continue to grow—continue to help more people live better lives—Keller says he plans to go beyond the product itself. He hopes to offer a sense of community, additional information and programming, and nutrition to a broader audience.

photo by Brian Flannery

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The Business of Fitness

F45 Training

BY GRETCHEN GOSWITZ

F45 Training isn’t just the next fitness fad—it’s already globally established, with over 750 franchises that span across more than 25 different countries. After becoming wildly popular in Australia, F45 Training expanded beyond its flagship’s borders and caught on quickly with residents in Hong Kong, India, Switzerland, Canada, and more. Now, it’s setting up shop in the United States, eager to prove it’s the fastest growing fitness franchise in the world for good reason.

Although F45 Training is seeing major success in America, David

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Bohreer is the franchisee responsible for bringing it to Austin. In his background of teaching martial arts, Bohreer valued the role functional training played in his students’ overall athleticism. It was enough to sway his decision to buy into a functional fitness franchise, and after some shopping around, he found the right one. While in Las Vegas,Bohreer dropped into an F45 Training spot and after two classes, he was sold on it. Austin’s first F45 Training facility—located in Four Points—opened its doors to the public in May 2017, and Bohreer photography by Brian Fitzsimmons

David Bohreer

is currently in the works of opening his second in Avery Ranch, while another franchisee prepares to launch in Westlake.

"I thought we’d see a trend [in clients] but we really haven't. I was told it could be for anybody and I really believe that. Anybody can do the workout because it can be scaled to modification,” Bohreer says.

While Ricky Martin, Russell Wilson, and Hugh Jackman are among the many clients that boast the benefits of F45 Training’s workouts, celebrity endorsement isn’t the only reason people get

hooked. All classes adhere to a 45-minute time cap and a HIIT format that quickly moves through stations (as many as 54 different exercises) guided by monitors displaying respective movements. In an era that has seen an influx of programming, F45 Training showcases innovation that lead to undeniable results.

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The Business of Fitness

FitRankings

BY SOMMER BRUGAL

Let’s face it; we’ve all had a fitness wearable at some point. But only a few of us still have—and use—one today. FitRankings is aiming to change that.

Patrick Hitchins, CEO and founder of FitRankings, attributes the decline in wearables to most devices’ inability to evolve beyond simply tracking and checking user statistics. Mainly, though, he says they fall short in creating meaningful experiences.

According to Hitchins, FitRankings works to enable businesses and brands to leverage a space already full of fitness device wearers—to foster deeper connections between brands, their customers, and communities.

“For the individual person, they aren’t able to engage with their favorite local business [through their device].”

FitRankings, Hitchins says, enables individual companies to get involved.

“We offer businesses and organizations the tools they need to easily connect to all wearables and fitness apps, and create contextually meaningful experiences for users.”

FitRankings currently works with national and local brands alike, including American Heart Association, Saucony, and Business Journals. And while larger partners such as these can have a powerful impact using FitRankings, Hitchins hopes to make an impact on a smaller community level as well.

“Seeing us grow and gain relevance would [look like] your local coffee shop having the tools to run a basic [fitness] challenge that can engage their community from it, sell more coffee, and inspire people to move.”

Through FitRankings, Hitchins hopes people will dust off their wearable and connect with their favorite brands—and other individuals—through fitness.

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photography by Brian Fitzsimmons

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The Business of Fitness

BY CHELSEA BUCKLEW

Taking health initiatives to the next level, Mayor Steve Adler and his Health and Fitness Council announced their Healthiest Workplace and School Awards for 2017 on Sept. 15 in hopes of improving health in the city of Austin. Workplaces and schools alike were rewarded for achieving exemplary status for implementing great health practices and promoting health and well-being in their everyday environments. Businesses such as Humana, Asuragen, Inc., Foundation Communities, 3M, and Seton Healthcare Family won Healthiest Workplace Awards as well as City of Austin and Capital Metro Transit Authority. Healthiest schools included Campbell Elementary, Cook Elementary, Murchison Elementary, and Dailey Middle School. Winners received $1,000 in grants to support ongoing health and wellness initiatives within their establishments.

The Mayor's Health and Fitness Council Partner Certification Program plans to include a variety of organizations come 2018 and currently includes businesses and schools of different calibers. The council bases their assessments on four pillars of health—tobaccofree living, physical activity, nutrition, health education and preventive services. This year, 37 workplaces fell under those guidelines.

The Council aims for Austin to be the healthiest and fittest community in America and has been reaching for this goal since 2004.

The nonprofit's mission is to support and inspire people to improve their health by encouraging physical activity, improved nutrition, and tobacco-free living. By providing community connections, building alliances, and supporting the implementation of best health programs and practices, they wish to positively affect the community towards building healthy lifestyles.

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Mayor Steve Adler

photo by Luis_molinero, freepik.com

Mayor’s Health & Fitness Council

27th Annual

ThunderCloud Subs Turkey Trot

g Center Thanksgiving Day @ The Lon All proceeds benefit Caritas of

Austin

5 mile run, 1 mile walk, Kid ’s K

Register now at ThunderCloud.com

Make it your Thanksgiving tradition.

2017

GiftGuide

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e

SHOES

photo by Weston Carls

Leo Manzano, 1500m 2012 Summer Olympics silver medalist.

Hoka One One Clifton 4 As one of Hoka One One’s best sellers, the Clifton 4 is a tried and true shoe fit for road runners. Improved padding all over—from the sole to the tongue—will keep your stride strong and fast for miles to come. $130

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SHOES

Allbirds Allbirds are some of the most comfortable shoes on the market.

And aside from a stylish look, they minimize odor, regulate temperature, and wick moisture. Made with ZQ-certified wool, no sheep were harmed in the process of making these versatile shoes.

Perfect for men and women alike, Allbirds are a great buy for the holiday season. $95

Womens Nike Air Max Thea The Nike Air Max Thea is a classic shoe perfect for everyday wear and light to moderate exercise. $95

Chacos Z/Cloud Walk on clouds this holiday season with the pillow-top comfort the new Z/Cloud Chacos provide. Made of rubber soles, a custom adjustable strap system, and an ultra-soft cushion, treat your feet with a pair of these. $110

Adidas Providing enhanced comfort and flexibility, the ALPHABOUNCE 5.8 ZIP shoes are weather resistant and adapt to every move. Ideal for wet and dry conditions, these shoes will keep comfortable and prepared to face unpredictable conditions. $120

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Sabahs As an original shoe based on traditional shoemaking methods, Sabahs are a fitting (pun intended) gift idea for just about anyone—kids included. With a large variety of colors and prints, these shoes can be dressed up or down to fit any occasion. $170–$190

TRACKERS

Fitbit Ionic The Fitbit Ionic has a lot to offer this year with its built-in GPS, personal coaching, and multi-day battery life. If you’re goal driven, this is the product for you this holiday season. $300

Polar M600 If you prefer Android over Apple, this your go-to watch to keep track while you train. But if you’re versatile, this waterproof watch also pairs well with the iPhone to accommodate everyone's technological needs. $300

Soleus GPS Pulse BLE + HRM Data-geek meets fitness fanatic with this product. Users can upload information straight to their phone while it tracks every little bit of their exercise. $159

Garmin Fenix 5S The Garmin Fenix 5S is made for your fancier friends who prefer to workout in style. With up to two weeks worth of battery life, multisport GPS features, and outdoor sensors, the Garmin is a premium choice for your fitness watch needs. $600

Apple Watch Series 3 The third iteration of the Apple Watch is by the far the best, with its connective capabilities and waterproof finish. Finally, you can make calls and texts directly from your watch, stream more music, and get alerts when you’re nowhere near your phone. A generous gift idea for the fitness junkie or just someone who needs help being more punctual. $329

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Milk + Honey Pamper Day Gift someone the Milk + Honey Signature Retreat which includes a 60-minute Signature Massage, Signature Facial, and a m + h Manicure and Pedicure. You’ll be their favorite gift-giver of the season. $289

Lake Travis Zipline Adventures Give the gift of nature this year and go for a zipline adventure over Lake Travis. $119

Skydiving - IFLY Always wanted to try skydiving but not quite ready for the real deal? The Spread Your Wings package is the best way to try skydiving without having to jump out of a plane. Go for the Spread Your Wings for Two and invite someone to share the fun. $110–$130

Austin Zoo What better way to celebrate the holidays than to spend a day at the zoo with family or friends? Starting off as a goat ranch in 1990, the Austin Zoo is now a place for assisting animals through rescue and rehabilitation.

P rices vary

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EXPERIENCES

NLand Surf Park Whether you’re a beginner or an avid surfer, NLand Surf Park is an exhilarating surfing experience for all ages.

P rices vary

Lake Austin Spa Stay For anyone trying to unwind this holiday season, Lake Austin Spa and Resort is the perfect getaway. The best selling Resort Package includes services such as: healthy gourmet meals, lake accommodations, access to the fitness center, and much more.

P rices dependant on duration of stay

Austin Biplane Tours Fly over the Austin city limits for a fun holiday activity with friends, family, or by yourself. They offer single passenger and two passenger flights each 20 minutes at a time. $229–$289

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Molekule Air Purifier Molekule breaks down harmful microscopic pollutants in your air such as chemicals, allergens, viruses, and bacteria. Best of all, it can make a world of difference in the quality of air you breathe in your home. $799

Ecobee4 The Ecobee4 responds to your voice, has a remote sensor that is able to manage hot and cold areas in your home, and includes a built-in Amazon Alexa speaker. It can order groceries, read the news, and much more. It is the only one of its kind on the market and adds so much convenience to everyday life. $249

Dog + Bone Snap Collar The local brand, Dog + Bone, is your one-stop-shop for all your dog collar and leash needs. The snap collar is a sleek asset for any dog size or breed and comes in several different colors. $25

Art Naturals Freshen up your space with essential oils and create a calm, zen environment. $60

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IN-HOME

Onnit Kettlebells (Star Wars Collection) May the force be with you...literally. Know the full power of the dark side with the Onnit Kettlebell Star Wars collection this year. These kettlebells are a must-have this holiday season for all the kettlebell fanatics out there. P rices vary

Vitamix 7500 Legacy Series These days, a Vitamix is a household staple for all your protein shake and smoothie needs. Order one this year for yourself or others. $530

Serta Snuggler Heated Electric Warming Wrap Throw Snuggle up this winter with the Serta Snuggler Heated Throw. Any and all homebodies who enjoy watching movies and having a cozy night in will thank you for this added comfort to their lives.

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STYLE

Style At Service

by ALEX EARLE The functionality and simplicity of clothing and gear designed for military use has gained a resurgence in civilian life. Everything from bags to jackets to camping equipment can be found in camouflage prints—full of fall color tones of greens, greys, and blacks. Our current infatuation with militarygrade products is probably best illustrated by extremely functional features, like waterproofing, heavy-duty materials (ballistic nylon, stainless steel), and my favorite: lifetime warranties.

Vuori Banks Short - $68 Linerless, versatile athletic shorts created for workouts, yoga, swimming, or everyday life. vuoriclothing.com

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A GLIMPSE AT 10 TRENDING PRODUCTS THAT REFLECT THE PURPOSEFUL, YET SIMPLE, MILITARY DESIGN.

Vuori Outdoor Trainer Shell - $112 All-purpose lightweight jacket, with ample pockets, perfect for running in less-than-perfect weather conditions. vuoriclothing.com

Stanley Mountain Vacuum Food System - $50 This little cook pot/food jar keeps food hot or cold for more than 10 hours. It also integrates as a small pot to cook your food over fire, and contains an attached spork as well when you’re ready to grub. stanley-pmi.com

Barton Watch Bands Smokey Grey Nato Watch Band - $12 This brand is locally-owned and available in a variety of materials and colors. Ballistic nylon ensures a strong band that will endure all the elements. bartonwatchbands.com

L.L.Bean Women’s Hybrid Wool Coat - $249 Exceptionally warm mid-thigh length wool coat with adjustable hood, and waistline drawstrings for added styling and temperature control. llbean.com

Hudson Sutler Ltd. Ed. On The Wing Camo Cooler Bag - $140 This camo cooler is built around a half inch of insulation with a waterproof liner normally reserved for life rafts. It's constructed with 18-ounce canvas as well as a rustproof zipper. Oh, and it holds up to 30 beers or 8 bottles of wine. Perfection. hudsonsutler.com

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STYLE REI Co-Op Kingdom Chair - $66 Reviews describe this foldable camp chair as “comfortable,” “sturdy,” and “convenient.” While heavier than most chair in its class, the Kingdom chair is worth the extra weight for its added comfort and aesthetic. rei.com

Polerstuff Reversible Napsack Camo - $150 You may look ridiculous at the campsite, but you’ll definitely stay warm. This reversible napsack acts as a sleeping bag, and a full body romper with zippered holes at the arms to allow you full range of motion polerstuff.com

MTM Special Ops Status A-38 Watch Case - $199 Designed for the 38mm Series 2 or Series 3 Apple Watch, this titanium military-grade case houses two analog quartz “microdials” for additional time-keeping and protection. This resolves the dilemma of a dead battery for Apple Watch wearers...plus, it’s pretty damn cool looking. specialopswatch.com

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Rite in the Rain Field-Flex Memo Notebook - $5 Ideal for hikers, trainers, or anyone who likes to take notes in dirty conditions. The 112-page pocket-sized notebook repels water, and is resistant to dirt and moisture. officedepot.com

Forsake Women’s Forsake Patch Boots - $150 Waterproof, antimicrobial, stylish boots for most any outdoor terrain. Molded EVA soles and rugged traction offer wear as casual lace-ups to durable all-terrain adventures. rei.com

Howler Bros Band of BROS Merlin Vest - $135 Local favorite Howler Brothers continues to impress with their designs.

This vest is ultra lightweight yet warm and soft. These vests fit perfectly with or without layers and should be in every guy’s closet in Austin. howlerbros.com

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STYLE

Gear That Gets You Motivated

by HALEY BAROS

“Shake Your Booty Legging – L’Urv” $105, carbon38.com

Yoga pants, workout tanks, running shoes, oh my! It seems more and more women these days are running around town dressed like they’ve either just hit the gym, or they’re about to hit the gym, proving that “athleisure” is a trend that is not going anywhere anytime soon. Sure, this look is beyond practical and comfortable, but perhaps these women are onto something.

Have you ever noticed that a new pair of kicks, or even a new water bottle or yoga mat, gets you excited to exercise and propels you toward a more successful workout?

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According to a study from the Journal of Experimental Psychology, this is a real psychological phenomenon called “enclothed cognition,” essentially suggesting that the clothing a person wears can positively influence the wearers performance. So, if you’ve been feeling a bit stagnant and unmotivated lately, go out and get yourself some fresh new gear!

Here are some stylish looks that just help you get your booty into gear and reach your goals.

Aqua Imagine Motivational Bottle $22.95, motivationalbottle.com

“Work It Out Exercise Mat – After This We’re Getting Pizza” $32, bando.com

“Work It Out Gym Bag – Looking Good Feeling Good” $35, bando.com

Pureboost X All Terrain Shoes $150, adidas.com

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WELLNESS

MEDICAL FAQ

Gout

After interviewing Dr. Chris Parker about gout, we learned about how it affects millions of people in the United States each year and, unknowingly, millions more who are on the track towards developing this illness.

Defined as a form of inflammation in the joints, gout can cause severe pain, redness, tenderness, and swelling, Gout has many different stages and can sometimes attack completely out of the blue. Between acute gout, interval gout, and chronic gout, gout occurs in roughly four percent of American adults. You’re also more likely to develop symptoms if someone in your family has experienced it before.

Conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and high cholesterol increase your chances of development as well.

What are the signs of gout? Gout usually starts, not in the hands, but in the feet (its favorite is the big toe joint.) Most doctors, if they see a sick, swollen, red toe—and it looks like a hammer dropped on it—will say, ‘you’ve got gout.’ That pattern is very different than other types like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis where it starts with certain rows of joints in the hand. Gout starts as one joint at a time, especially in the big toe joint, and it comes and goes. If you don't do anything about it, it will move north over time.

What causes gout? It comes from a normal waste product in the blood called uric acid, which your kidneys will excrete in urine. If

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Foot with gout

Healthy foot

kidneys can't keep up with the load, it will build up and it settles in the joints and the soft tissues. It’s a normal waste product, but you can get gout if you have too much. More than 8 million people in the United States have gout and more than 20 million people in the United States have high uric acid levels, so they’re at risk for gout.

get broken down into uric acid; the kidneys can't keep up. Some of the things that are very high in purines are organ meats, shellfish and alcohol—especially beer. I don't tell people that they have to stop drinking beer or alcohol, I just tell them, ‘If your uric acid levels are really high we're going to have to be careful with that.’

Where does extra uric acid come from?

There are two ways to get it. One way it can happen is from the inability to excrete all of the uric acid because your kidneys just aren't working well enough. That’s why a lot of people with kidney disease get it. The other way is from consuming too much food or drink containing high levels of purines that

How can you manage your uric acid levels? I tell patients what foods and drinks are high in purines but I'm also careful to share that some people, even if they have a healthy diet, just have a genetic predisposition to make lots of uric acid. I make it really clear that diet is important, but you may not get it under control with diet alone.

Medicine In Motion Care for your active body Dr. Martha Pyron, MD and her team offer care for sports-related injuries, nutrition and fitness, and performance-based medical care.

They specialize in Urgent Care but at regular office prices as well as discounts for high deductible insurance plans, and cash pay patients.

Need an appointment today?

Call (512) 257-2500 www.medicineinmotion.com North

Central

2400 Chisolm Trail Round Rock, TX 78681

711 W. 38th St., Ste. G4 Austin, TX 78705

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schedule your free initial consultation with us: info@crossfitcentral.com 512.507.6450 Cr o s s F i t C e nt r a l .c o m e s t. 2 0 0 5

WELLNESS

The Importance of Probiotics

“The Importance of Probiotics” is a series of three articles on why probiotics support a healthy gut, how to incorporate them into your diet, as well as a nononsense shopping guide. This is the second installment, which delves into the probiotics and prebiotics consumer guide. by LAURYN LAX

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Not all probiotics are created equal.

Just like there’s a quality difference in a McDonald’s hamburger compared to a grass-fed burger from Wholly Cow Burger, there’s a quality difference in various probiotics on shelves.

A true probiotic, designed by nature, is a species found in our environment, as well as in our digestive system. Unfortunately, approximately 95 percent of probiotic products on shelves today do not meet these criteria. Yes, this includes the yogurts that claim they have probiotics. In actuality, you’d have to eat about 25 servings of that one yogurt to get the probiotics they claim. Many probiotics sold in stores (as well as food sources of probiotics) are simply watered down versions of the “real deal,” and if anything, a waste of your money. Get the quality bang for your buck and your bod with these quick-hit shopping tips:

Know What You’re Getting:

Two Primary Types of Probiotics Most People Benefit From of bacteria found in nutrient-rich soil. Soil-based bacteria (SBOs) have the ability to “seed” the digestive tract with bacteria that will flourish and support a balanced microbiome overall. Unlike other probiotics not derived from soil, soil-based and spore-based probiotics are generally well-tolerated by most people, and are very stable (i.e. they don’t need any special coatings or preservatives to ensure a clinically relevant amount reaches the appropriate areas of the gut).

I often recommend soil-based organisms because of their superior tolerability and colonization of the G.I. tract, coupled with food sources (fermented foods) to consume a variety of lactic acid bacteria. Win-win.

Lactic-Acid Bacteria Probiotics Lactic-acid bacteria is the most common type of probiotic people take—since it is found in the vast majority of supplements on shelves. It is also the type of bacteria found in fermented foods, like sauerkraut, kombucha, fermented veggies and some quality pharmaceutical grade probiotics.

1

Broad-Spectrum Soil-based or Spore-Based Probiotics Soil-based and spore-based organisms are a “newer evolution” of probiotics consisting of soil-based or spore-forming strains

2

Look for this on the label: The list and names of probiotic strains. If the specific names of the strains of probiotics are NOT listed on the label (i.e. it just says “live organisms), steer clear. As for the “top” probiotic superstars, strains names to look out for these names on your bottle: • Soil-based Organisms (with strains listed on it) • Lactic Acid Bacteria (especially with Saccharomyces boulardii, and possibly Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Bifidobacterium bifidum, Bifidobacterium breve, Lactobacillus plantarum,and/or Bifidobacteria infantis) • Fermented Foods with “live and active cultures” • Probiotic “CFU” Count: CFU stands for “colony forming units” and is used to quantify how many bacteria you will receive per dose. Probiotics come in varied “CFU counts”—anywhere from one billion CFUs to 100-billion (or more) CFUs. Generally speaking, the higher the CFU, the more likely more (healthy) bacteria are to house in your gut. CFU count is most important to consider in lactic acid bacteria supplements. Look for a potency count (CFUs or “colony forming units”) of 50 billion or higher.

Investment

Mix It Up

Start Slowly

Paying $10 to $20 for your probiotic?

Chances are, you’re not getting the real deal. Remember, you get what you pay for. While this doesn't have to mean going for the most expensive variety, it does mean that the majority of varieties sold on shelves at H-E-B or Nutrishop may not be worth your dollars.

Variety is the spice of life and probiotics are like snowflakes—no two are alike. They contain hundreds and billions of different strands that can be beneficial for the sake of all-around gut microbiome balance. Just like your body would miss out on multiple nutrients if you were to eat only eggs everyday for breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day as your protein source, the same goes for the bacteria you feed your gut. Every one to three months, rotate your top brands of probiotics to keep your body guessing.

Any time you start a new probiotic, it’s typically best to introduce it gradually to your body, as there is often a “healing” or even “die off” reaction that can be experienced—sometimes making your body feel worse before it feels better. (This is a good sign though.) With whatever formula you choose, consider dosing up by starting with one capsule every other day, then progressing to one capsule daily the next week, then on to upwards of two doses of probiotic supplements daily, along with fermented foods.

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Healthy Helpings

Quicks hits of interesting facts, health boosters, and fitness tips—like a magazine multivitamin.

True or False Memorable NFL Moments The first Thanksgiving was eaten with spoons instead of forks. T

Peyton Manning slaying the Lions in ‘04 with six touchdown passes The first sibling face-off in 2011 when head coaches John and Jim Harbaugh took the Ravens and 49ers up against each other When Barry Sanders did his thing against the Bears in ‘97 crushing their defensive line and rushing three solid touchdowns That time in 1993 when Miami had an unlikely win against the Cowboys—in a snowstorm—but Dallas still went to the Super Bowl Redskins vs. Cowboys in 2012 when the ‘Skins were up 28-3 at halftime but the Cowboys made an epic comeback to win it all

Thanksgiving was meant to be a fast instead of a feast but then the Wampanoag Indians showed up and turned that fast into a feast. T President Lincoln dubbed Thanksgiving to be on the third Thursday in November but President Roosevelt was pushing for the fourth. Lincoln won. F (Lincoln wanted the fourth but Roosevelt moved it a week in hopes of prompting more shopping during the Depression —it never caught on)

Sources: https://www.si.com/nfl/2016/11/23/nfl-moments-thanksgiving-games-leon-lett-mark-sanchez-barry-sanders; http://www.foxsports.com/nfl/gallery/10-of-the-best-thanksgiving-day-games-in-nfl-history-112416

Health Benefits of Pumpkin Pumpkins contain potassium which is good news for those trying to lower their blood pressure Pumpkin is pumped with tons of antioxidants making it ideal in supporting eye health and keeping those whites even brighter Give that immune system a boost, eat a pumpkin

Dense in beta-carotene, pumpkin may reduce the risk of developing certain cancers cells, help with overall aging, heart disease and even protect against asthma One cup of pumpkin (not canned) is only 49 calories, go wild Source: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/279610.php

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Benjamin Franklin was pushing for the turkey to be the national bird as he claimed it was a “much more respectable bird.” T Americans eat about 20 million turkeys on Thanksgiving. F (We actually eat about 46 million turkeys) Only Americans celebrate Thanksgiving.

F (Canadians do too, but on the second Monday in October) A popular magazine editor of the mid-19th century, Sarah Josepha Hale, who campaigned to make Thanksgiving a national holiday, also used her creative efforts to write the nursery rhyme “Mary Had a Little Lamb.” T

The largest pumpkin pie ever made weighed about 4,284 pounds capping off at a solid 20 feet long in 2005. F (It weighed 2,020 pounds and was just over 12 feet long) The first Macy’s Day Parade was in 1924 in New York City and included live animals from the Central Park Zoo. T Dark meat turkey contains less vitamins and minerals than white meat turkey. F (It contains more) The meat in the turkey breast contains fewer calories and fewer grams of fat than most other parts of the turkey. T

Sources: http://allparenting.com/my-life/articles/969379/20-thanksgiving-fun-facts-to-teach-kids\; http://www.cnn.com/2013/11/28/living/thanksgiving-fun-facts/index.html; http://www.history.com/topics/thanksgiving/thanksgiving-facts; http:// www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/285736.php

in Thanksgiving History

Word on the street is that no turkey was actually served at the first Thanksgiving but, rather, deer, geese, venison, and an assortment of fish. T

S E L F

P R O M O T I O N

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The average American consumes more than 4,500 calories and 229 grams of fat during Thanksgiving. We challenge you to accumulate as many Met Minutes as possible in November.

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FITNESS

How to Stay Fit at Your Office Job

Tip 1: Start The Day Off Right

Five tips to improve your daily health and make you more productive. by LIZ HARROUN

It’s been hours since you’ve had anything to drink and your body is already dehydrated. Do yourself a favor by consuming a big glass of water before your coffee, tea, or green juice. For breakfast, include plenty of healthy fats and protein. Avoid sugary or processed carbs in the morning, as it will likely leave you hungry and sleepy before lunch. Swap out a pastry for eggs or chickpea pancakes! With only about six grams of sugar, this breakfast smoothie (recipe below) will keep you full and focused all morning long.

The Lizard Blizzard Smoothie 1/2 cup mixed berries 1/2 small avocado 1 Tbsp. nut butter of choice 1 Tbsp. chia seeds 1 Tbsp. coconut oil 1 tsp. Maca A few fresh mint leaves One small chunk of fresh ginger root 1 Tbsp. raw cacao powder 1 1/2 cups filtered water 2-3 scoops collagen protein

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Tip 2: Rethink Your Commute

Many of us actually perform better if we save our tough workouts for the afternoon, but it’s still a good practice to get in some movement before we settle into work. The easiest way to incorporate this daily? Ditch the car commute, and bike or walk to work.

Knowing you have an active commute bookending your workday forces you to hydrate properly, eat well throughout the day, and stick to one drink at happy hour. If biking or walking is not a possibility, check out public transport options. Taking the bus or metro still gets you up walking to the stop and helps reduce your personal environmental footprint. Plus, instead of getting stressed out in traffic, you can get some personal reading done or call that friend you’ve been meaning to catch up with. photography by Travis Perkins

Tip 3: Give Your Eyes and Back a Break

Staring at a screen can be detrimental to your eye health, but there are some simple habits you can implement to keep your eyes working for many years to come. My favorite hack is the "20-20-20 break": Every 20 minutes, take 20 seconds to look at something 20 feet away from you. You can reduce glare that puts extra strain on your eyes by cleaning your screen often.

There are also some ways you can minimize the adverse effects of sitting all day. Many large companies offer options for adjustable standing desks if you reach out to HR. If you work from home or for a smaller company, create your own version of a standing desk by using a bar or high-top table and taking breaks on a stool or floor as needed.

Tip 4: Fuel Properly

So you started the day off with a healthy and satiating breakfast, you rode your bike to work, and you’ve been drinking plenty of water. Before you know it, you’ve knocked out half of your to-do list and are still feeling like a rockstar. Don’t sabotage the afternoon with lunch. If you bring your own, try packing a jar salad, which can easily be transported via backpack or bike pannier.

These can be stored for up to five days in the fridge if you want to make several before your week begins. If you are using soft items or perishable proteins like avocado or grilled chicken, wait to add these within 24 hours of chow time. When you’re ready for lunch, simply shake the salad into a bowl—bon appetit!

Jar Salad Instructions:

Tip 5: Get Some Offline Time

There are nights when you can’t avoid checking your email or phone, but make sure to get a few hours of offline time every evening. Budget time each night when you do not look at your phone. Scheduling an activity during this time can help you to forget the screen addiction. Go for a run, play with the kids, or take the dog for a long walk. This will make you a healthier and more effective employee, so don’t feel guilty for taking this time for yourself.

Pour 1 to 4 tablespoons of your favorite salad dressing in the bottom of a widemouthed quart-size jar. (My favorite is olive oil and fresh lemon juice.) If you are eating the salad within 24 hours, you can put the avocado on the bottom and make sure it’s coated with the lemon juice to prevent browning.

For the next layer, add hard veggies like carrots, cucumbers and beets. These can handle being soaked in the dressing—in fact, the marination can even enhance their flavor!

Follow up with protein and/or cheese. Add some grilled chicken, tuna, hard boiled eggs or fresh goat cheese.

Round it out with some nuts and seeds. Include nuts and seeds of your choice, such as walnuts or pumpkin seeds. If you need some extra bulk for your afternoon workout, you can also add healthy carbs like quinoa or buckwheat.

Finish your salad off with the greens—pile on until the jar is full.

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FITNESS

Curvy Yoga How to find a body-affirming yoga class, from the book, Curvy Yoga. by ANNA GUEST-JELLEY

O

ne of the most frequently asked questions I receive is how to find a curvy-friendly yoga class. I have a couple of answers for this: The first is to check out the list of Curvy Yoga-certified teachers on my website curvyyoga.com, and we also have a virtual studio if that’s more your style. There may just be someone in your area!

And the second is how to find a teacher you like. Because when you’re ready to try a yoga class, whether for the first time or the hundredth, it may be a little scary sometimes. What will it be like? How will you know what to do? Will you feel like part of the group? Will you be able to keep up?

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The good news is that you don’t have to go in with no information.

I encourage you to compile a list of at least two or three potential teachers whose classes you’d like to try. Once you have their names and contact info, consider connecting with them before class. I love hearing from new students before they come to a class; it is a great way to get to know them better and assuage any potential fears they may have. Here are a few you might consider (feel free to use or adapt):

• What props are available in your class, and when/how do you incorporate them?

If a teacher uses props in her class, it gives me a clue that she is at least somewhat knowledgeable about adapting poses to her students’ needs.

• Do you offer pose modifications during class? This gives the teacher a clue that you will want/need various pose options, and it will also give you a chance to hear more about the teacher’s thoughts on that.

• What is your experience teaching curvybodied students? It’s useful to hear that a teacher has taught curvy-bodied students in the past. If he says he doesn’t have much experience but he does have experience modifying poses for people with a number of injuries, abilities, ages, and the like, that is also a good sign that he can help you come up with creative solutions. Although experience with curvy bodies is obviously helpful, I think the most important thing is for the teacher to have a spirit of willingness to help you find what works for you in a nonjudgmental atmosphere. afm Condensed and excerpted from Curvy Yoga by entrepreneur and body positive yoga instructor Anna Guest-Jelley

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Full Body. Low Impact.

One Awesome Workout.

Sign up for Intro to Rowing www.austinrowing.org

FITNESS

FML WORKOUT

TRX Duo Trainer Push, pull, hinge, lunge and rotate. Your guide to movement and maximum results!

by LATEEF JOHNSON, ACE, CPT, AFAA, CGFI & TRX LEVEL 3

CORE TRX Duo Trainer Side Plank Single Leg with Elbow to Knee PERFORM 3 SETS FOR 30 SECONDS ON EACH SIDE

Set-Up: From a side plank position on the ground sideways, place your bottom foot in the TRX Duo Trainer foot cradle. Keep elbow directly under shoulder and packed for stability.

Have your hips fully extended, shoulders down and back, long through the spine.

Action: Press your entire arm (palm and forearm) into the arm on the ground to lift yourself up. Maintain a straight line and keep the top leg lifted.

ORE OR M S AT F K O LO OUT ITNESS/ /F WORK M .COM E F A AZIN

AU S T

INFIT

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TRX Duo Trainer Hip Hinge to Chest Press

PERFORM 10 REPS SLOW AND CONTROLLED Set-Up: Stand behind the anchor point and press both hands into handles. Keep a straight back, vertical shins and hands close to the knees.

Action: Extend from the hips and knees.

Maintaining shoulders down and back, lower body to a strong plank position. Lower the body toward the ground, then press back up. Hinge back with your hips while bending at the knees.

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photography by Brian Fitzsimmons

STRENGTH TRX Duo Trainer Hip Throw

PERFORM 12 REPS (EACH SIDE COUNTS AS 1) FOR 3 SETS, WITH A 1 MINUTE BREAK IN BETWEEN. Set-Up: Stand under the anchor, in an inverted position with your back parallel to the floor. Hold handles directly underneath the anchor point. Extend through the hips while pulling the shoulder down and back.

Action: Pull yourself up, then rotate across the body. Lower back down, then perform on the other side.

TRX Duo Trainer Atomic Pike

PERFORM 10 TO 12 REPS FOR 3 SETS, WITH A 1 MINUTE BREAK IN BETWEEN. Set-Up: Toes in the foot cradles, in a ground-facing position. Press your hands into the ground to form a plank. Pull your toes toward your shins.

Action: Lift your hips as high as possible with straight legs. Lower hips back to a plank, then lower body down toward the ground and perform a push-up. Lift and repeat. performed by Lateef Johnson at FIT Austin

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FITNESS

TRX Duo Trainer TRX Hamstring Curl

PERFORM 10 TO 12 REPS EACH SIDE FOR 3 SETS, WITH A 1 MINUTE BREAK IN BETWEEN. Set-Up: Lying on your back, have your feet underneath the anchor point in the foot cradles. Lift your hips.

Action: Pull your heels toward your hips, then slowly lengthen your legs and repeat.

TRX Duo Trainer Burpee

PERFORM 8 TO 10 REPS EACH SIDE FOR 3 SETS, WITH A 1 MINUTE BREAK IN BETWEEN. Set-Up: Place one foot in the foot cradle while standing tall to maintain balance.

Action: Lower the suspended leg down toward the ground, reaching hands to the ground. Place hands on the ground, placing the body into a plank position with one leg floating. Lower the body to perform a push-up, lift, jump off the single leg and clap overhead. Land and repeat.

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E NTIR E E H SEE T OUT AT NESS/ WORK INE.COM/FIT AU S T

INFIT

MAGA

Z

TRX Duo Trainer Pull-Up

Set-Up: Hold both the handles with your arms straight underneath the anchor point. Pull the shoulders down and back.

Action: Lift your body off the ground. Extend the legs and pull up.

Keep legs floating while you repeat. Lower and lift your body while maintaining a strong core.

TRX Duo Trainer Dip

Set-Up: Lift or jump your body up, pressing into the handles with straight arms. Point your toes.

Action: Lower your body toward the ground, bending at the elbows and pressing into the handles. Flex at the hips lifting your legs parallel to the ground.

PERFORM 10 TO 12 REPS FOR 3 SETS, WITH A 1 MINUTE BREAK IN BETWEEN.

PERFORM 10 TO 12 REPS FOR 3 SETS, WITH A 1 MINUTE BREAK IN BETWEEN.

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Events ROWING TEXAS CENTER

FEATURED MOVED TO TASTE

Fall Special

7 Months for $349 or 13 Months for $499 • • • • •

Intro-to-Rowing Program (6 classes) Unlimited Rowing, Kayaking, Canoeing Unlimited Stand Up Paddling Gift Certificates Available Experienced Coxswains row FREE!

North Shore of Town Lake on Hike & Bike Trail behind Austin High School

512.467.7799 www.texasrowingcenter.com info@texasrowingcenter.com

Sports & Outdoors NOVEMBER 4

17th Annual Jameson 5K at Southwestern Georgetown 5K run, walk or mosey through the Southwestern University campus. You’ll be running or walking through the streets of Southwestern's Campus and the city of Georgetown which makes for an ideal course. All proceeds benefit the Jaysn Jameson Memorial Scholarship Fund at Southwestern University. Register by October 25 to receive some free swag and potential to win awesome door prizes. jameson5K.org NOVEMBER 4

Texas Roller Derby Austin The TXRD is back in action and coming at you from the Palmer Events Center for a 16th season. Check out your favorite competitors and watch them as they skate their way through the rink in “the most entertaining sport in the world”!

NOVEMBER 23

ThunderCloud Subs’ Turkey Trot Austin A crowd favorite, the annual ThunderCloud Subs' 5-mile run/1-mile walk Turkey Trot is the best way to start off Thanksgiving Day. Typically a semi-brisk morning, it’s a great time to come out for free snacks, a fun run, and look at all the people dressed up as turkeys. thundercloud.com

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NOVEMBER 23

Shanti Kelley's 6th Annual Thanksgiving Day Practice Austin Shanti teams with Practice Yoga and Lululemon to bring you a Thanksgiving Day practice where a portion of the proceeds goes to FrontSteps Austin. practiceyogaaustin.com NOVEMBER 23

Buda Turkey Trot Buda TBS Productions is hosting their inaugural Buda Turkey Trot benefiting the Hays County Food Bank. Marking the start of a new family and community tradition, the 5K run and walk celebrates Thanksgiving and gives back to the community. Kids 10 and under are free and youth and seniors have special pricing to incorporate the whole family.

Food & Drinks NOVEMBER 2

Moved to Taste With the goal of getting kids up and moving, Moved to Taste is its own food and drink experience with the twist of shaking their bones. An interactive way to raise money for the Boneshaker Project’s programs and initiatives to inspire kids to maintain healthy and active lifestyles. Restaurants participating include: Cannon + Belle, Oasthouse, The Grove, Bullfight, The Taco Project, True Food Kitchen and many more. boneshaker.ticketbud.com/m2t2017

NOV. 2017

Submit your event online at austinfitmagazine.com

NOVEMBER 3–12

Wurstfest New Braunfels Not actually the worst, Wurstfest is the perfect storm of food, music, and carnival fun. Located just a short drive outside of Austin, you can enjoy an Alpine and Bavarian cultural experience with beer in one hand and turkey leg in the other. wurstfest.com

Christmas Affair” is back in town. Hosting 200 vendors at Palmer Events Center, you’re in for a shopping experience filled with events, food, and all things Santa.

Each year, they decorate according to a theme so have your cameras ready to take a festive photo by the massive Christmas tree. Hoorah for Christmas! jlaustin.org NOVEMBER 18

NOVEMBER 5

Texas Monthly BBQ Festival Austin Smoke, sauce, and all things spice—Texas Monthly’s BBQ Festival is back for its fourth consecutive year! Come out and judge who makes the best BBQ in town and taste in just five short hours. tmbbq.com

Lifestyle NOVEMBER 6–7

The Healthier Texas Summit Austin Drawing leaders from all avenues, The Healthier Texas Summit has the goal of reducing rates of obesity and preventing chronic disease by educating and interacting with members of the community.

Offering workshops, conversations, and info sessions, The Summit will cover topics such as, creating healthier public spaces, health communications, healthy practices in the workplace and much more. healthiertexassummit.com/the-conference/ NOVEMBER 10–12

Sound on Sound Festival Sherwood Forest Think Peter Pan, running through a Renaissance festival, listening to modern day music, and you’ve found yourself at Sound on Sound Fest. A new take on the old Fun Fun Fun fest, this festival promises three days of music by local, national and international touring indie rock, hip hop, punk, and dance acts. soundonsoundfest.com NOVEMBER 15 – DECEMBER 3

Chuy's Christmas Parade Austin An Austin staple, Chuy’s, will be hosting a spirited holiday parade featuring marching bands, giant balloons, vintage cars, floats and more to kick off the holiday season. chuysparade.com

Arts NOVEMBER 2 – NOVEMBER 5

2017 U.S. Vintage National Championships Austin For its fifth year, The Circuit of The America’s is hosting over 400 competitors as they test iconic race cars on our very own race track. Don’t miss out on this unique experience and some crazy race car driving. svra.com NOVEMBER 4

Austin Powwow Austin What’s better than American Indian dancing, singing, arts and food? Not much - we know.

Come out for the 26th year of the largest festival of it’s kind. austinpowwow.net NOVEMBER 4–5

Texas Book Festival Austin Got books? On Nov. 4-5 The Texas State Capitol will. Now one of the most elite literary events in the country, this festival houses 250 authors and over 40,000 book fanatics each year. All things go including book discussions, readings, book signings, live music, local food — you name it! texasbookfestival.org

A Christmas Affair Austin It’s the most wonderful time of the year and The Junior League of Austin's “A N OV E M B E R 2 0 1 7 / AU S T I N F I T M AG A Z I N E

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Race Calendar FEATURED THUNDERCLOUD SUBS’ TURKEY TROT

NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 4

Maniac Austin

Wurst 5 Mile Run

New Braunfels

Pflugerville Pets Alive! Dog Jog and 5k

Austin

Pflugerville

Dirt Trails and Pony Tails

Rugged Maniac Obstacle Race

Veterans Day Suicide Awareness Grunt Run Lockhart

Sunset Marathon 5k, Half, Marathon Bastrop

Austin

Austin

NOVEMBER 12

Blanco Vista Wildcat 5k

Jameson 5K at Southwestern

San Marcos

Georgetown

Dripping Springs

Bulldog Dash 5k

NOVEMBER 5

Marble Falls

Buda

Tour de Gruene Gruene

Wonderland Muleshoe Bend Trail Race

Austin

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Run For the Water

Austin

Run by the Creek

Hill Country Trivium

Snake Bite 5k

San Marcos NOVEMBER 11

Shoebox Shuffle 5k New Braunfels

NOVEMBER 18

Chosen Half Marathon New Braunfels

NOV. 2017 – JAN. 2018

Submit your event online at austinfitmagazine.com

Live Oak Brewing Beer Run

Austin

Feed Your Hunger 5k

Schlotzsky's Jingle Bun Run

Temple

Girls on the Run 5K

New Braunfels

Austin

Thankful Turkey 5k

DECEMBER 10

San Marcos

Wicked Wine Run

Spicewood

Decker Challenge Half Marathon

Austin

Jingle Bell Run for Arthritis 5K Austin

NOVEMBER 23

ThunderCloud Subs Turkey Trot

BCS Marathon/Half Marathon

Austin

College Station

Buda Turkey Trot

DECEMBER 16

Buda

Gruene Turkey Trot

Gruene

Pfeathered Pfun Run

Pflugerville

DECEMBER DECEMBER 2

Heroes in Recovery 6K

Austin

Hops and Grain Brewery 5K Tour

Austin

Insane Inflatable 5K

Temple

Old Town Rudolph Run

Race to the Pantry

Canyon Lake

Vern’s No Frills 5K

Georgetown

Foam Glow

Austin

JANUARY JANUARY 6

Purgatory Trail Run

San Marcos

JANUARY 13

Arches Resolution 5K

Temple

JANUARY 20

Bruises & Bandages Trail Races

Leander

Georgetown

Spicewood Vineyards Half Marathon and 10K

Georgetown

Burnet

Vern's No Frills 5K

JANUARY 21 DECEMBER 3

3M Half Marathon

Fit Fox 5K

Austin

DECEMBER 9

Tutus & Tennies 5K

Blanco

JANUARY 27

Big Red Barn’s Country Christmas Dash

Seguin

Buda

St. Jude’s Jingle Bell 5K New Braunfels

The Circus - McKinney Roughs Trail Runs/Relay

Austin

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DISCOVER!

FAIRY ALLEY

A FAIRY-FILLED NOOK OFF OF 1507 TREADWELL STREET PRESERVING THE MAGIC OF THIS CITY.

by CHELSEA BUCKLEW

When you think of Austin, you think weird, eclectic vibes and tie-dye t-shirts—fairies aren’t the first thing that come to mind. But tucked away behind the Lamar Union complex lies Fairy Alley, a mythical road of glitter and glitz just waiting to be found.

Suvi Aika—the primary caretaker of the fairies she says are responsible for this wondrous spot—describes it as a city-approved space where people and their kids can go to enjoy a bit of nature, art, and magic in an urban setting. Fairy Alley is an otherworldly place to wander about while passing through the neighborhood. Previously overgrown, and occupied by drug users, Aika was inspired to reform her residential area to be a safer place for her young son. Now, Fairy Alley is a safe haven for all.

Aside from being open yearround for the public to enjoy, Aika also decorates for holidays such as Halloween, Christmas, and Easter.

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After gaining the city's approval and fundraising from private donors, Aika turned a once dilapidated walkway into a beautiful work of art. But due to the growth in Austin’s population over the years, the alley has been added to Google Maps as a city road, which has led to excess traffic and wear and tear. Aika has now repainted the alley several times, but each time it gets harder for her to keep people from disrupting the wet paint in the process. She hopes to preserve the alley with the help of the Transportation Department—given they grant her an official road closure.

Fairy Alley helps maintain the weird in Austin and continues to provide a great spot for people of all ages to enjoy—it wouldn’t exist without the work of the fairies, after all.

photography by Brian Fitzsimmons

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